Hunter Elliott Back at Ole Miss in 2026? It ‘Wouldn’t Shock’ Pitching Coach Joel Mangrum
Could Ole Miss fans be in for a surprising reunion in 2026? Pitching coach Joel Mangrum thinks so — or at least, he wouldn’t rule it out. When asked about the possibility of former ace Hunter Elliott returning to Oxford, Mangrum’s response raised eyebrows across the Rebel faithful: “It wouldn’t shock me.”
The left-handed pitcher, once considered the crown jewel of Ole Miss’ rotation, has had a career filled with both brilliance and setbacks. Elliott burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2022, helping guide the Rebels to a historic College World Series title. With a fierce fastball and poise beyond his years, Elliott became a fan favorite and a key piece of the team’s identity.
But injuries and inconsistency soon interrupted his meteoric rise. Tommy John surgery sidelined him for much of the 2023 and 2024 seasons, and despite a return attempt in 2025, Elliott never quite found the dominant rhythm he once had. Still, his loyalty to the program and raw talent never came into question.
That’s what makes Mangrum’s comments so intriguing. The idea of Elliott returning for the 2026 season — perhaps as a graduate player or to raise his draft stock — isn’t as far-fetched as it might seem. “Hunter has unfinished business,” Mangrum said. “This place means something to him, and he’s the kind of competitor who wants to go out on his terms.”
It’s not just sentimentality that could bring Elliott back. With the ever-changing landscape of college baseball, especially in the NIL era, players are weighing their professional futures differently. Some stay longer to ensure they’re physically and mentally ready for the grind of minor league baseball. Others use that time to reestablish themselves after injury or transition into new roles — like a bullpen arm or long reliever — that could help them stick at the next level.
Elliott could fall into either category. His velocity and command have fluctuated post-surgery, but flashes of brilliance still appear. In limited 2025 action, he posted a 3.80 ERA with 45 strikeouts over 30 innings, showing signs that the old Hunter Elliott is still in there. A healthy offseason and full workload could make him one of the SEC’s most experienced and dangerous arms next spring.
For Ole Miss, a return would be more than a sentimental boost. It would bring stability and leadership to a young staff still finding its footing. “Hunter’s presence in the locker room is huge,” Mangrum added. “He’s been through it all here — winning, losing, injuries, comebacks. Guys listen when he speaks.”
While nothing is confirmed, Elliott has not officially declared for the MLB Draft or ruled out a return. His decision may ultimately hinge on feedback from scouts, personal health, and what role he sees himself playing in 2026.
One thing is clear: if Hunter Elliott does put the Ole Miss uniform back on next season, no one in Oxford — especially Joel Mangrum — will be surprised.
